Whenever you feel you need to freshen up your wardrobes, you can easily turn to your favorite shows and films for a dose of inspiration. While this may seem like a broad statement, we can focus on one particular decade that has been making its way back to saturating fashion markets thirty years later: the 90s.
Everything from bucket hats to beaded clips; sweater vests to cardigans; pleated skirts to slip dresses are making a comeback. For concrete ideas on how to put these trends together, here is some throwback fashion, inspired by your favorite 90s shows and films.
Clueless (1995)
Clueless is perhaps the movie that comes to mind on the topic of 90s fashion. Many actually consider Cher and Dionne’s coordinated plaid blazer and skirt sets to have defined this era. This movie is filled with bold looks that combine femininity and eclecticism: oversized hats, knee-high socks with metallic shoes, fur-lined hems, and numerous others.
Although many have sported iconic Clueless looks as Halloween costumes, these outfits can be pulled off any regular day of the week to elevate your wardrobe. The classic teen film actually just celebrated its 25th anniversary, and what better way to pay homage to it than by trying your hand at introducing statement prints and pieces into your closets. For starters, you can go for something leopard-printed. While Cher is often cited for her style, Dionne’s outfits were just as memorable – and she’d definitely approve of this funky animal print.
Friends (1994-2004)
The 90s sitcom Friends is a fan favorite for many reasons. Despite its final season concluding over a decade ago, old fans still can’t get enough, while succeeding generations are now introduced to the show through new mediums. Viewers no longer need to wait for new episodes every week, or anticipate the cast’s appearances on talk shows.
The entire series can now be streamed on platforms like HBO Max, where the show’s upcoming reunion will premiere once filming has been completed. To get even closer to the show, a Friends-inspired is hosted on Foxy Bingo which features the iconic elements and characters as well, albeit through a different medium. Those who want to take a closer look at the show’s wardrobe – emblematic of everyday work outfits, Ralph Lauren released a preppy workwear collection inspired by Rachel Green as a nod to her role as an employee during the show’s run. You can easily pull off a similar effect with cropped cardigans, pleated skirts, and oversized blazers.
Jawbreaker (1999)
For outfits with a little bit of edge and attitude, why not tune into a movie that captures just that – Jawbreaker. This satire has developed a cult following for its deadpan humor, dark undertones, and outfits that scream sass. The mean girl clique of Courtney, Foxy, and Julie turn their high school hallway into a runway with their spandex skirts, red lipstick, and brightly colored cropped tops.
However, it’s also fun seeing the sartorial choices of Fern, the goody-two-shoes turned bad girl, as she uses fashion to emphasize her transition to the dark side. When she becomes known as Vylette, we see a drastic change from her frumpy has-been past.
When you’re ready to pull off ultimate, over-the-top 90s looks as Jawbreaker did when it closed out the decade, reach for metallic tubes and neon tops with matching scarves.
